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Expert Q&A
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| By Rachel Wickersham Doula | ||
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What questions should I ask when choosing a doula?
Below are some questions you should consider discussing with any prospective doula:
- Have you attended a Doula training workshop? Many doulas have been trained by Doulas of North America (DONA) or by the Association of Labor Assistants and Childbirth Educators (ALACE).
- Are you certified or working towards certification by DONA, ALACE or any other organization?
- If you have no formal training, do you have experience in providing Labor Support? Some women have several years experience which may make up for lack of formal training.
- Do you have special knowledge of High Risk or VBAC issues?
- What is your philosophy regarding fathers' involvement?
- How will you facilitate communications with our caregiver?
- How many Prenatal and Postpartum visits do you provide?
- May we meet your backup Doula?
- What are your fees? Most Doulas charge between $300 - $600 per birth. Some have sliding scales for those with financial concerns.
- Are you independent or hospital employed?
If Hospital Employed:
- Are you bound by shift schedules?
- Are you bound by hospital policies or are you free to support us in our choices?
Related Expert Q&A
- Some of my friends have said that the doctor told them not to eat or drink during labor. My midwife suggested that it is helpful to eat during labor if I feel like it. What is the difference?
- I don't want to be stuck in the hospital bed. Can you suggest a few different ways to remain active during birth?
- Why do the hospitals only allow laboring women to have ice chips?
- Why do the hospitals only allow ice chips while in labor?
- What questions should I ask when choosing a doula?
More Answers by this Expert
- I'm worried about my daughter, who has toxemia due to pregnancy. The swelling is still there, and depression is setting in. What can I do?
- What exactly does the mucous plug look like? How will I know what it is when I lose it?
- Is a heating pad safe to use?
- Is it worth hiring a doula if I am going to have a C-section?
- What questions should I ask when choosing a doula?
